1

Mwd Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$161 - $240/hr

Build and maintain close relationships with California public water agencies (e.g., MWD, SFPUC, DWR ... Experience operating in a seller-doer capacity, contributing to business development, supporting ...

... operated and non-operated opportunities. Responsibilities Perform integrated geological ... Integrate drilling events, mud log shows, gas data, and LWD/MWD responses to update interpretations ...

Showing results 41-60

Mwd Operator information

See salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do mwd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mwd operator in the United States is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an MWD operator?

MWD Operators, or Measurement While Drilling Operators, are professionals in the oil and gas industry responsible for monitoring and transmitting real-time data from downhole sensors during the drilling process. They operate specialized tools and equipment that measure parameters such as direction, inclination, and geological information while drilling is underway. This data helps drilling engineers make informed decisions to optimize well placement, improve safety, and increase efficiency. MWD Operators often work on-site at drilling locations, collaborating closely with drilling teams to ensure accurate data collection and reporting.

What are the typical challenges faced by an MWD operator during drilling operations and how are they addressed?

MWD Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, signal interference, and real-time data transmission issues while monitoring drilling parameters. To address these, operators rely on strong troubleshooting skills, regular equipment calibration, and close coordination with drilling engineers and the rig crew. Working in remote or high-pressure environments also requires adaptability and clear communication to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. Continuous training and adherence to safety protocols help MWD Operators effectively manage these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an MWD operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an MWD Operator, you need a background in engineering or geoscience, strong mathematical abilities, and relevant field experience, often supported by technical training or certification in Measurement While Drilling. Familiarity with MWD/LWD tools, data acquisition systems, and downhole telemetry technology is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure and in remote environments help an operator excel. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate wellbore placement, optimizing drilling performance, and maintaining safety standards in challenging oilfield operations.

What is the difference between Mwd Operator vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectMwd OperatorDrilling Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in MWD technology, basic drilling knowledgeRequires engineering degree, advanced technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, operating MWD toolsOffice-based, overseeing drilling operations and planning
Industry UsageCommonly used in oil and gas drilling projectsInvolved in designing and optimizing drilling programs

The Mwd Operator focuses on operating measurement while drilling tools on-site, ensuring real-time data collection. The Drilling Engineer designs and manages drilling plans, often working in an office setting. While both roles are essential in drilling operations, they differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

More about Mwd Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Mwd Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Mwd Operator job openings:

What states have the most Mwd Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mwd Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Mwd Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Mwd Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Mwd Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,704 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

$54 - $71.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

At the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we deliver reliable water to a region with 19 million people-and to accomplish this, we rely on a team of talented employees: innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators who make it all possible.
There are currently two (2) openings for Aqueduct Pump Specialist located at Gene Camp (Parker Dam, CA).
This recruitment may result in an eligibility list*.
We are looking for an Aqueduct Pump Specialist (Millwright/Industrial Mechanic) to be part of the Pump Maintenance Team. This hands-on role combines complex troubleshooting, maintenance, and mechanical problem solving to ensure optimal performance and reliability of the Desert Region's Pumping Plants.
What You'll Do
  • Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and install critical mechanical equipment including large pumps, motors, compressors, cooling and lubrication systems, and associated equipment.
  • Perform predictive, preventive, and corrective maintenance to keep large-scale pumping and water conveyance equipment operating safely, efficiently, and reliably.
  • Work hands-on with various heavy industrial equipment, including control and measurement systems, cranes, gates, penstocks, valves, and reservoir infrastructure.
  • Apply journey-level millwright or industrial mechanical expertise to diagnose and resolve complex mechanical issues.
  • Provide training and technical direction over any onsite apprentices and operations and maintenance technicians.

This job announcement has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this classification / job.
To view the full job description, click here: Aqueduct Pump Specialist
The Incentive Pay program will be setup to provide a Desert Branch Assignment Premium to qualifying employees as follows:
  • 5% for all employees assigned to Gene Camp or Intake.
  • 15% for all employees assigned to Hinds Pumping Plant, Eagle Mountain, or Iron Mountain.

Schedule: 4/10 Start times are no earlier than 6 am and end times are no later than 6 pm.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience: High school diploma or high school equivalency certificate in addition to a minimum of 5 years in a journey-level mechanical maintenance position in a pump plant, treatment plant, hydroelectric or conveyance and distribution facility or similar environment.
Specialized advanced journey level experience and knowledge as demonstrated by practical application of techniques and practices specific to the operation, maintenance, and repair of aqueduct infrastructure, pump plant, power generation systems, and related systems and apparatus. Skills necessary include predictive and diagnostic evaluation of complex utility pump and power equipment using analog and digital test as well as computer equipment. Also requires advanced journey-level skills in preventive and corrective maintenance practices related to aqueduct equipment and infrastructure, pump plant and hydroelectric plant maintenance generally obtained through applicable training and experience.
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Employees in this position may be required to obtain and maintain the following certifications, licensing and registrations:
License(s): Valid California Class C Driver's License or equivalent that allows you to drive during your employment is required at time of application.
BENEFITS
  • Competitive compensation
  • Excellent medical, dental, life, vision plans.
  • Deferred compensation in the form of a 401(k) plan (with matching contribution) and a 457 plan.
  • Retirement benefits under the California Public Employees' Retirement System
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Training and advancement opportunities

For more information on MWD benefits, please use the following link: Benefits Regular Full Time Employee
ABOUT MWD
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is a state-established cooperative that, along with its 26 cities and retail suppliers, provides water for 19 million people in six counties. The district imports water from the Colorado River and Northern California to supplement local supplies, and helps its members to develop increased water conservation, recycling, storage and other resource-management programs.
Metropolitan is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees.
Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process, please reach out to the Human Resources Office at (213) 217-7738 or email jobs@mwdh2o.com.
In accordance with applicable laws, we provide religious accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, practices, and observances that conflict with work requirements. If you require a religious accommodation during the application, interview, or employment process, please reach out to the EEO Office at (213) 217-5858 or eeooffice@mwdh2o.com. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Application Filing Period: Closes at 11:59 pm PT on the date stated in the job announcement. However, it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended.
Eligibility List*: An eligibility list is a list of qualified candidates created when a job posting states that one will be established.
Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications listed in the original posting and successfully pass all stages of the recruitment process-but are not selected for the initial vacancy-may be placed on this list for future openings.
The list may be used to invite candidates to participate in a selection interview for a future vacancy in the same classification / title (if there is one). The duration of the list depends on the applicable bargaining unit.
Qualifying Experience: Your resume must at a minimum include the month and year you began and ended employment, name of the organization, your title, and a brief description of your experience. If your employment was part-time, make sure you identify it on your resume next to the month/year.
Sponsorship: Applicants for employment with The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States (i.e., H1-B or other employment-based immigration case).
#LI-Onsite